Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations: Biblical Studies, PhD

NELC’s PhD track in Biblical Studies, a part of NELC’s Hebrew and Judaic Studies program, offers advanced study of the languages and philology of the Hebrew Bible as well as the history and archaeology of ancient Israel in its Near Eastern context.

At the heart of NELC’s Hebrew Bible/Old Testament track are texts composed over a period extending from the early Iron Age to the Hellenistic-Roman period. The goal of this PhD track is to prepare students to research and teach these texts, in both the historical contexts in which they were originally composed, and as they have been understood in later historical periods. Drawing on faculty in NELC, the Jewish Studies Program, and other departments, the Biblical Studies program takes an interdisciplinary approach to biblical literature that involves the study of language, literature, history, archaeology, and other fields. This program can be tailored for individual students with different interests.

Other Program Milestones

In addition to the above-described required coursework, PhD students are responsible for two (2) European language reading exams, candidacy exams, and qualifying exams before preparing a dissertation proposal.

Secondary Field in Biblical Studies

Graduate students from other programs who wish to take a secondary field in Biblical studies must complete the following requirements:

Biblical literature: familiarity with the content of the Bible, distinctive features of its main genres, and important literary-critical issues

History and culture of ancient Israel

Comparative studies relating Biblical Israel to the student's Primary Field

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2018 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

Sample Plan of Study

Students in the PhD program are required to take 20 course units. The coursework component is normally three years in length, but with the potential for transfer credit for other graduate courses within the field. Students entering the PhD program will be assigned a faculty advisor who will supervise the student's program until the Candidacy Examinations in the 4th year of study have been completed.